New boss for Virgin Australia

Virgin Australia will launch a global search for a new boss following the resignation of Jayne Hrdlicka.

The US-born executive led Virgin through Covid and back into profitability but today announced her decision to stand down from the role of CEO.

The Board of Virgin Australia will "shortly commence a global search process for a new CEO," the airline said in a statement.

Hrdlicka has led Virgin Australia as CEO since her appointment in 2020 after the airline was acquired out of administration by Bain Capital.

“I have decided the time is right for me to signal CEO transition for this great airline and ultimately to pass the baton on," Hrdlicka said.

"This is not a decision I have taken lightly, but the last four years have been heavy lifting across the organisation during the toughest of times.

"We are in the midst of the next phase of our transformation program and there is a lot to do and an IPO to deliver. The next phase of this journey is another 3-5 years, making now the perfect juncture to begin the process of leadership transition to deliver the next few chapters of what I’m sure will be a significant long-term success story.

“I am very proud of what the Virgin Australia team have accomplished together since the depths of administration and the Covid-19 pandemic."

Virgin Australia chairman Ryan Cotton said: "Jayne has led Virgin Australia through the most turbulent times of its 20+ year history.

"Her leadership was fundamental to repositioning the airline back to its roots as a value carrier, returning Virgin Australia to profitability for the first time in 11 years. It has laid a strong foundation for continued growth and margin expansion that will underpin Virgin Australia’s competitive position in the Australian market."

A former Qantas and Jetstar exec, Hrdlicka is currently also the chairman and board president of Tennis Australia. Her husband died last year after a battle with cancer. 

Wine Australia unveils its new boss

Wine Australia conducted a global search for its new CEO - and found him just around the corner.

Dr Martin Cole, who will start on November 15, joins the wine industry umbrella body from the University of Adelaide, where he is the Head of School of Agriculture, Food and Wine.

Wine Australia Chair Dr Michele Allan said, “We are delighted to welcome Dr Cole as the new CEO, after what’s been a highly competitive recruitment process, and know that he’ll be a great asset to the Australian grape and wine community and our levy payers.

“Along with his wine sector experience, Dr Cole brings extensive experience across government, academia and industry - including the broader agricultural sectors - and has held senior leadership positions at the CSIRO, overseas and in larger commercial companies.

“His collaborative, multidisciplinary approach and extensive experience in stakeholder engagement will be of great benefit to the sector, as we focus on growth opportunities for growers, producers and exporters post-COVID-19, Brexit and China’s deposit tariffs on bottled Australian wine imports."

Cole replaces Andreas Clark, who spent 15 years with Wine Australia, including eight as CEO.

Cole will step in to the role filled by interim CEO Steven Weinert, who has been in charge since Clark's departure in July.

“I am excited to be joining Wine Australia at this critical time," Cole said.

“Grape and wine is such an important sector for Australia but faces many challenges and opportunities.

“Without doubt, excellent collaboration and world best practice innovation will be critical to driving future growth and profitability for our stakeholders.”